Best Products for Blackheads (2024)

Skin ConcernsBlackheadsBest Products for Blackheads

Best Products for Blackheads (3)

By Kyra Heenan

Dec. 08, 2021 / 2 min read

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Targeted skincare products will help unclog pores to keep pesky blackheads in check. Here are our recommendations for the best products for blackheads.

Our Recommendations

1. AHA & BHA Daily Clean Toner

Best Products for Blackheads (4)

Mizon Product for Gentle Exfoliation

Mizon AHA & BHA Daily Clean Toner

This toner is an excellent product if you’re looking for gentle daily exfoliation. It contains AHAs, BHAs, and papaya enzymes that exfoliate to unclog pores and smooth tone and texture.

Skin types: All Skin Types

Best for: Gentle Exfoliation

Tested on animals: No

How to use: After cleansing, soak a cotton pad with the toner, and then swipe all over the face, neck, and chest. Follow up with a moisturizer.

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This exfoliating toner contains glycolic acid and lactic acid, which are alpha hydroxy acids. These AHAs work on the surface of the skin to improve tone and texture and minimize signs of aging. It also contains salicylic acid, a BHA that works deep in the pores to unclog and prevent acne.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Exfoliating

Cons

  • Contains fragrance

In addition to the AHAs and BHAs, this toner contains glycerin, which hydrates, and papaya fruit extract, which further exfoliates.

Water, Glycerin, Sodium Lactate, Alcohol, Butylene Glycol, Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Portulaca Oleracea (Green Purslane) Extract, Carica Papaya (Papaya) Fruit Extract, Arnica Montana (Arnica) Flower Extract, Artemisia Absinthium (Mugwort) Extract, Achillea Millefolium (Common Yarrow) Extract, Gentiana Lutea (Yellow Gentian) Root Extract, Salicylic Acid, Disodium EDTA, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Fragrance

  1. National Center for Biotechnology Information. "An antiaging skin care system containing alpha hydroxy acids and vitamins improves the biomechanical parameters of facial skin"

    Accessed Aug. 26, 2021.

  2. National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Over-the-counter Acne Treatments"

    Accessed Aug. 26, 2021.

2. Advanced Pore-Refining Treatment 4% BHA

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Paula's Choice Product for Exfoliation, Large Pores, and Acne

Paula’s Choice Advanced Pore-Refining Treatment 4% BHA

This exfoliant contains a powerful concentration of salicylic acid, which works to unclog pores to minimize their appearance while also fighting breakouts.

Skin types: Normal, Oily and Combination

Best for: Exfoliation, Large Pores, and Acne

Tested on animals: No

How to use: After cleansing, massage the exfoliant into the skin. Follow up with a moisturizer.

See on AmazonSee on PaulasChoice.com

The 4% concentration of salicylic acid (which is higher than the cult-favorite Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant) helps to unclog pores and promote a more even skin texture and tone. This makes this an excellent exfoliant for those dealing with large pores and breakouts and wanting to improve the overall appearance of the skin.

Pros

  • Fragrance-free
  • Non-greasy
  • Lightweight

Cons

  • May irritate sensitive skin

This exfoliant contains additional antioxidant-rich ingredients that protect the skin and fight signs of aging, as well as soothing and hydrating ingredients. This includes glycerin, allantoin, grape seed extract, green tea leaf extract, and matricaria flower extract.

Water (Aqua), Butylene Glycol, Dimethicone, Salicylic Acid, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Glycerin, Aminomethyl Propanol, Adenosine, Allantoin, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizinate, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract, Avena Sativa (Oat) Bran Extract, Punica Granatum Fruit Extract, Sambucus Nigra Fruit Extract, Camellia Oleifera (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Lycium Barbarum Fruit Extract, Peucedanum Graveolens (Dill) Extract, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Xanthan Gum, Citric Acid, Disodium EDTA, Benzyl Alcohol, Phenoxyethanol

  1. National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Over-the-counter Acne Treatments"

    Accessed Aug. 27, 2021.

3. Bentonite Healing Clay

Best Products for Blackheads (6)

Aztec Secret Product for Acne, Blackheads and Large Pores

Aztec Secret Bentonite Healing Clay

This natural clay mask uses calcium bentonite clay to help absorb excess oil and dissolve impurities in the skin for a clearer complexion.

Skin types: All Skin Types

Best for: Acne, Blackheads and Large Pores

Tested on animals: No

How to use: After mixing with your liquid of choice, apply a thin layer of the mixture all over your clean, dry face (or just to affected areas). Leave it on for 5-15 minutes. Wash away with lukewarm water. This mask can be used 1-2 times per week.

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This simple mask contains 100% calcium bentonite clay, with no other added ingredients. It can help draw out impurities from the skin to refine the appearance of pores, minimize oiliness, and clear breakouts.

Pros

  • Natural
  • Fragrance-free
  • Vegan and cruelty-free

Cons

  • May dry out the skin

This mask is free of fragrances, dyes, and other additives that may irritate the skin.

100% Natural Calcium Bentonite Clay

  1. National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Bentonite Clay as a Natural Remedy: A Brief Review"

    Accessed Sep. 2, 2021.

4. Blackhead Remover Kit

Best Products for Blackheads (7)

Bestope Product for Blackheads

Bestope Blackhead Remover Kit

This affordable blackhead remover kit contains 5 tools that help you easily extract blackheads.

Skin types: All Skin Types

Best for: Blackheads

Tested on animals: No

How to use: After cleansing, steaming (this will help loosen debris in the pores), and drying the skin, place the extractor tool around the blackhead. Gently press down on one side, and then slowly roll it to the other side of the blackhead to extract the debris. Avoid applying too much pressure, as this can irritate and even damage the skin. Before moving on to the next blackhead, sterilize your tool to avoid spreading bacteria.

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This kit contains angled loop, small loop, flat loop, and spoon extractors, so there are tools for different needs. The tools are made with a stainless steel coating, which means they won’t irritate the skin.

Pros

  • Stainless steel
  • Anti-slip handle
  • 5 tool styles

Cons

  • Improper use can irritate the skin

Each tool is made with an anti-slip handle design, which makes it easier for you to control the positioning and pressure.

5. Blackhead Power Liquid

Best Products for Blackheads (8)

COSRX Product for Acne and Blackheads

COSRX Blackhead Power Liquid

This beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) exfoliator is one of the best COSRX products for those prone to acne and blackheads. It penetrates deep into the skin to unclog pores, which helps maintain clear, smooth skin.

Skin types: Normal, Oily and Combination

Best for: Acne and Blackheads

Tested on animals: No

How to use: After cleansing, dispense the product onto a cotton pad, and then gently wipe all over the face.

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BHAs are some of the most effective chemical exfoliators when it comes to unclogging pores. This product contains gentle BHAs – willow bark water and betaine salicylate – which exfoliate with a minimized risk of irritation.

Pros

  • Fragrance-free
  • Vegan and cruelty-free

Cons

  • May not be suitable for sensitive skin

This product contains sodium hyaluronate (the sodium salt of hyaluronic acid) and panthenol, which help counteract some of the potentially irritating side effects of the exfoliating ingredients.

Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Water, Butylene Glycol, Betaine, Niacinamide, Betaine Salicylate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Hyaluronate, Panthenol, Xanthan Gum, Ethyl Hexanediol

  1. National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Over-the-counter Acne Treatments"

    Accessed Aug. 27, 2021.

6. Acne Medication Pads

Best Products for Blackheads (9)

Stridex Product for Acne and Blackheads

Stridex Daily Care Acne Medication Pads Maximum Strength

These cleansing pads use the power of salicylic acid to help treat and prevent breakouts.

Skin types: All Skin Types

Best for: Acne and Blackheads

Tested on animals: Yes

How to use: Cleanse and dry the skin, and then sweep a pad across the entire face. Follow up with a moisturizer.

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These pads are soaked with a 2% concentration of salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid (or BHA). Salicylic acid is an incredibly effective chemical exfoliator that unclogs pores to help treat current breakouts and prevent new acne from forming.

Pros

  • Lightweight solution
  • Exfoliating

Cons

  • Contains fragrance

These alcohol-free pads are textured, which increases the product’s ability to sweep away debris and exfoliate the skin.

Salicylic Acid, Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate, Ammonium Xylenesulfonate, Citric Acid, DMDM Hydantoin, Fragrance, Menthol, PPG-5-Ceteth-20, Purified Water, Simethicone, Sodium Borate, Tetrasodium EDTA.

  1. National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Over-the-counter Acne Treatments"

    Accessed Aug. 27, 2021.

7. AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

Best Products for Blackheads (10)

The Ordinary Product for Improving Skin Texture and Tone

The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

This peeling solution is one of the best The Ordinary products, particularly for those looking for a high-strength but budget-friendly at-home peel.

Skin types: Normal, Oily and Combination

Best for: Improving Skin Texture and Tone

Tested on animals: No

How to use: Cleanse the skin, and wait for it to fully dry. Once dry, apply the peel evenly over the face and neck. Leave on for up to 10 minutes, and rinse with lukewarm water.

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This peel offers a range of benefits, thanks to a high concentration of alpha-hydroxy acids (glycolic acid, lactic acid, tartaric acid, and citric acid), as well as an effective concentration of beta hydroxy acid (salicylic acid). The AHAs help to exfoliate the top layer of the skin to reduce the signs of aging, improve texture, and minimize hyperpigmentation, while BHA unclogs pores for a clear complexion.

Pros

  • Oil-free
  • Fragrance-free
  • Alcohol-free
  • Vegan and cruelty-free

Cons

  • High probability of irritation (best used by those experienced with acids)

This peel contains ingredients to help counteract irritation, including Tasmanian pepperberry and vitamin B5. However, this peel is still very strong for an over-the-counter product, and is best suited for those who already have experience using chemical exfoliators in their routine.

Glycolic Acid, Aqua (Water), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Water, Sodium Hydroxide, Daucus Carota Sativa Extract, Propanediol, Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Salicylic Acid, Lactic Acid, Tartaric Acid, Citric Acid, Panthenol, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Tasmannia Lanceolata Fruit/Leaf Extract, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Xanthan gum, Polysorbate 20, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Ethylhexylglycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol

  1. National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Over-the-counter Acne Treatments"

    Accessed Aug. 12, 2021.

  2. National Center for Biotechnology Information. "An antiaging skin care system containing alpha hydroxy acids and vitamins improves the biomechanical parameters of facial skin"

    Accessed Aug. 12, 2021.

8. Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser

Best Products for Blackheads (11)

COSRX Product for Acne and Daily Cleansing

COSRX Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser

This gentle foaming cleanser removes excess oils and helps unclog pores without drying out the skin.

Skin types: Normal, Oily and Combination

Best for: Acne and Daily Cleansing

Tested on animals: No

How to use: Dispense the cleanser into your palms, and then gently massage it into wet skin. Rinse with lukewarm water.

See on AmazonSee on WalmartSee on Cosrx.com

If you’re acne-prone, you need a daily cleanser that will remove excess oils and impurities without further irritating breakouts or drying out the skin. This cleanser contains a 0.5% concentration of salicylic acid, a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that helps gently unclog pores to minimize breakouts.

Pros

  • Gentle
  • Vegan and cruelty-free

Cons

  • Contains fragrance

In addition to the salicylic acid, this cleanser contains willow bark water, tea tree oil, evening primrose extract, and other soothing skincare ingredients.

Water, Glycerin, Myristic Acid, Stearic Acid, Potassium Hydroxide, Lauric Acid, Butylene Glycol, Glycol Distearate, Polysorbate 80, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Salicylic Acid, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Fragrance, Sodium Chloride, Melaleuca Alternigolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Water, Saccharomyces Ferment, Cryptomeria Japonica Leaf Extract, Nelumbo Nucifera Leaf Extract, Pinus Palustris Leaf Extract, Ulmus Davidiana Root Extract, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Flower Extract, Pueraria Lobata Root Extract, 1,2-Hexanediol, Ethyl Hexanediol, Citric Acid, Disodium EDTA

  1. National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Over-the-counter Acne Treatments"

    Accessed Aug. 24, 2021.

9. Clear Face Cleansing Foam

Best Products for Blackheads (12)

Sebamed Product for Daily Cleansing

Sebamed Clear Face Cleansing Foam

This Sebamed cleansing foam is excellent for those with acne-prone skin that tends to be a bit oilier, as it deeply cleans pores while also hydrating for balanced skin.

Skin types: Normal, Oily and Combination

Best for: Daily Cleansing

Tested on animals: No

How to use: Wet your face with lukewarm water, and then gently massage the cleanser into your skin. Rinse with lukewarm water.

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This cleanser contains Montaline C40, an antibacterial ingredient that helps clean away impurities that clog pores. The mild soap also helps cleanse the skin without stripping it of its natural oils.

Pros

  • Gentle
  • Fights acne
  • Soothing

Cons

  • Contains fragrance

In addition to the Montaline C40, this cleanser contains vitamin B5 (panthenol), which soothes the skin.

Water (Aqua), Cocamidopropyl Betainamide MEA Chloride, Hydroxypropyl Oxidized Starch PG-Trimonium Chloride, Panthenol (Vitamin B5), Sodium Hydroxide, Fragrance (Parfum), Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Benzoate

  1. National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Skin moisturizing effects of panthenol-based formulations"

    Accessed Aug. 24, 2021.

10. Effaclar Adapalene Gel

Best Products for Blackheads (13)

La Roche-Posay Product for Acne

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Adapalene Gel

This acne gel treatment contains prescription-strength levels of adapalene, a topical retinoid that helps clear breakouts and prevent new acne from forming.

Skin types: All Skin Types

Best for: Acne

Tested on animals: Yes

How to use: After cleansing and drying the skin, apply a pea-sized amount over the face. Follow up with a moisturizer.

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This treatment is one of the best La Roche-Posay products for acne. It contains a 0.1% concentration of adapalene, which has been shown to be incredibly effective in the treatment of acne. This topical retinoid increases cell turnover rate, which keeps pores from clogging and prevents acne.

Pros

  • Fragrance-free
  • Oil-free
  • Dermatologist tested
  • Non-comedogenic

Cons

  • May cause irritation

While adapalene is less likely to cause irritation compared to stronger prescription retinoids (like tretinoin), it still may lead to some irritation, especially for those new to using retinoids. Start by using it every other night or twice a week to allow your skin to adjust.

Adapalene USP 0.1% (retinoid), Carbomer homopolymer, Edetate disodium, Methylparaben, Poloxamer 182, Propylene glycol, Purified water, and Sodium hydroxide

  1. National Center for Biotechnology Information. "A review of the use of adapalene for the treatment of acne vulgaris"

    Accessed Aug. 18, 2021.

11. Anti-Redness Exfoliating Solution

Best Products for Blackheads (14)

Paula's Choice Product for Acne, Blackheads, Hyperpigmentation and Redness

Paula's Choice Clear Regular Strength Anti-Redness Exfoliating Solution With 2% Salicylic Acid

This gentle exfoliating product is ideal for skin prone to breakouts, as it unclogs pores to minimize blemishes while soothing the skin to decrease redness.

Skin types: All Skin Types

Best for: Acne, Blackheads, Hyperpigmentation and Redness

Tested on animals: No

How to use: After cleansing, soak a cotton pad with the product and swipe all over the face. Follow up with a moisturizer.

See on AmazonSee on SephoraSee on PaulasChoice.com

This product contains a 2% concentration of salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid that is able to work deep in the pores to unclog and treat breakouts (and prevent new blemishes from forming). It also helps minimize the appearance of pores, and will work to diminish the appearance of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from previous blemishes. This concentration is high enough to be effective on acne-prone skin, but still gentle as to reduce the risk of irritation.

Pros

  • Fragrance-free
  • Lightweight
  • Non-greasy

Cons

  • May irritate sensitive skin

Additional hydrating and soothing ingredients are paired with the salicylic acid to minimize irritation and reduce redness. This includes glycerin, hyaluronic acid, allantoin, and panthenol.

Salicylic Acid 2%, Water (Aqua), Dipropylene Glycol (hydration), Pentylene Glycol (hydration), Polysorbate 20 (stabilizer), Butylene Glycol (hydration), Glycerin (skin replenishing), Sodium Hyaluronate (hydration/skin replenishing), Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate (skin-soothing), Allantoin (skin-soothing), Panthenol (hydration), PEG/PPG-17/6 Copolymer (texture-enhancing), Methyl Gluceth-20 (hydration), Glycereth-26 (texture-enhancing), Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane (hydration), Sodium Hydroxide (pH adjuster), Tetrasodium EDTA (stabilizer), Sodium Metabisulfite (stabilizer).

  1. National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Over-the-counter Acne Treatments A Review"

    Accessed Aug. 31, 2021.

12. 2.5% Benzoyl Peroxide Treatment

Best Products for Blackheads (15)

Acne.org Product for Acne

Acne.org 2.5% Benzoyl Peroxide Treatment

This gel-based treatment uses benzoyl peroxide to help treat current breakouts and prevent new breakouts from forming.

Skin types: All Skin Types

Best for: Acne

Tested on animals: No

How to use: After cleansing, apply a thin layer of the treatment all over your face. Follow up with a moisturizer, and a sunscreen during the day.

See on AmazonSee on Acne.org

Benzoyl peroxide is an incredibly effective skincare ingredient when it comes to fighting acne, as it kills bacteria that causes acne and removes excess dirt and sebum from the pores. The 2.5% concentration in this treatment is effective, but gentle enough that it is less likely to cause irritation.

Pros

  • Fragrance-free
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Absorbs quickly
  • Vegan and cruelty-free

Cons

  • May cause irritation

If you’re new to using benzoyl peroxide, it’s best to start slowly with a smaller amount, and then increase how much you use as your skin adjusts.

2.5% Benzoyl Peroxide, Water, Butylene Glycol, Carbomer, Potassium Sorbate, Phenoxyethanol, Diazolidinyl Urea, Sodium Hydroxide.

  1. National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Benzoyl Peroxide"

    Accessed Aug. 31, 2021.

13. Adapalene Gel 0.1%

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Differin Product for Acne, Blackheads and Dark Spots

Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1%

This treatment gel contains adapalene, a retinoid that is commonly used to treat acne and prevent new breakouts from forming.

Skin types: All Skin Types

Best for: Acne, Blackheads and Dark Spots

Tested on animals: Yes

How to use: After cleansing, apply a thin layer of the treatment all over your face. Follow up with a moisturizer.

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Adapalene is incredibly effective when it comes to treating acne, and it can also help fade post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from past breakouts. It increases cell turnover rates, which in turn helps clear acne and improve tone and texture.

Pros

  • Fragrance-free
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Oil-free

Cons

  • May irritate the skin

This gel is free of fragrances, and is also non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t contribute to clogged pores. You may initially experience some irritation as your skin adjusts to the retinoid.

Adapalene 0.1% (retinoid), carbomer 940, edetate disodium, methylparaben, poloxamer 182, propylene glycol, purified water and sodium hydroxide

  1. National Center for Biotechnology Information. "A review of the use of adapalene for the treatment of acne vulgaris"

    Accessed Sep. 1, 2021.

14. Acne Foaming Wash 10% Maximum Strength

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PanOxyl Product for Acne

PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash 10% Maximum Strength

This foaming benzoyl peroxide cleanser is excellent for fighting acne on both the face and body.

Skin types: All Skin Types

Best for: Acne

Tested on animals: Yes

How to use: Gently massage the cleanser into the face, as well as any other areas of the body that are prone to acne (like the back or chest). Rinse with lukewarm water.

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This foaming cleanser contains a 10% concentration of benzoyl peroxide. This high concentration helps kill acne-causing bacteria on the skin while also unclogging pores to treat current breakouts and prevent new blemishes from forming.

Pros

  • Fragrance-free
  • Non-comedogenic

Cons

  • May irritate the skin

For the best results, this cleanser should be used on a regular basis as part of an effective skincare routine to keep breakouts at bay.

Active Ingredient: Benzoyl Peroxide (10%) Inactive Ingredients: Carbomer Homopolymer Type C, Carbomer Interpolymer Type A, Decyl Glucoside, Dimethicone, Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate, Glycerin, Palmitic Acid, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Polyoxyl 40 Stearate, Propanediol, Purified Water, Silica, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Citrate, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Laurylglucosides Hydroxypropylsulfonate, Sorbitan Stearate, Stearic Acid, t-Butyl Alcohol, Xanthan Gum

  1. National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Benzoyl Peroxide"

    Accessed Sep. 1, 2021.

15. 2% BHA Exfoliant

Best Products for Blackheads (18)

Best Products for Blackheads (19)

Paula's Choice Product for Gently Exfoliating and Preventing Breakouts

Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

This cult-favorite product contains salicylic acid, a chemical exfoliator that gently exfoliates dead skin cells and unclogs pores for a clear complexion.

Skin types: All Skin Types

Best for: Gently Exfoliating and Preventing Breakouts

Tested on animals: No

How to use: After cleansing, soak a cotton pad with the product and swipe all over the face. Follow up with a moisturizer.

See on AmazonSee on WalmartSee on Sephora

This is a best seller at Paula’s Choice, and for a good reason. Salicylic acid (a beta-hydroxy acid, or BHA) is an excellent chemical exfoliator that sheds excess skin cells and decongests pores to fight acne and blackheads and promote a more even skin tone.

Pros

  • Fragrance-free
  • Lightweight
  • Non-greasy

Cons

  • May irritate more sensitive skin types

This product also contains green tea, which soothes irritation and provides anti-aging benefits.

Water (Aqua), Methylpropanediol (hydration), Butylene Glycol (hydration), Salicylic Acid (beta hydroxy acid/exfoliant), Polysorbate 20 (stabilizer), Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract (green tea/skin calming/antioxidant), Sodium Hydroxide (pH balancer), Tetrasodium EDTA (stabilizer)

  1. National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Over-the-counter Acne Treatments"

    Accessed Jul. 30, 2021.

16. Paula's Choice 2.5% Benzoyl Peroxide

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Paula's Choice Product for Diminishing Breakouts and Preventing New Acne

Paula's Choice Clear Regular Strength Daily Skin Clearing Treatment

The 2.5% concentration of benzoyl peroxide helps fight current breakouts while preventing new acne from forming.

Skin types: All Skin Types

Best for: Diminishing Breakouts and Preventing New Acne

Tested on animals: No

How to use: After cleansing, apply the treatment to acne-prone areas. Follow up with a moisturizer.

See on AmazonSee on SephoraSee on PaulasChoice.com

This is one of the best Paula’s Choice products for acne because benzoyl peroxide is a highly effective acne-fighting ingredient. It kills acne-causing bacteria on the skin and also gets rid of excess oil and pore-clogging dead skin cells.

Pros

  • Fragrance-free
  • Lightweight
  • Non-greasy

Cons

  • May irritate more sensitive skin types

This treatment also includes soothing and hydrating ingredients, including allantoin and bisabolol. These additional ingredients help calm redness and minimize drying from the benzoyl peroxide.

Benzoyl Peroxide 2.5% (anti-acne), Water (Aqua), Propylene Glycol (hydration/penetration enhancer), Bisabolol (skin-soothing), Allantoin (skin-soothing), Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer (texture-enhancing), Hydroxyethylcellulose (texture-enhancing), Sodium Citrate (pH adjuster), Laureth-4 (stabilizer), Caprylyl Glycol (preservatives), Hexylene Glycol (preservatives), Sodium Hydroxide (pH adjuster), Disodium EDTA (stabilizer), Phenoxyethanol (preservative).

  1. National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Benzoyl Peroxide"

    Accessed Jul. 30, 2021.

FAQs

What are the best products for blackheads that don’t contain BHAs and AHAs?

While chemical exfoliants (particularly beta hydroxy acids, or BHAs) are incredibly effective when it comes to treating blackheads, there are also other skincare ingredients that you can try if your skin doesn’t respond well to these types of products. Look for products containing retinoids or benzoyl peroxide, as well as clay masks. Some of the best non-chemical exfoliant products for blackheads include the Aztec Secret Bentonite Healing Clay, the La Roche-Posay Effaclar Adapalene Gel, the Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1%, and the Clear Regular Strength Daily Skin Clearing Treatment. Keep in mind that you should not apply retinoids and benzoyl peroxide at the same time, as they both cancel out the other’s effects.

How do you permanently get rid of blackheads?

In order to get rid of blackheads for good, you need to stick to a targeted skincare routine containing products that will keep the pores clear of debris. One of the best ways to keep blackheads at bay is to regularly use a chemical exfoliant (like the options above that contain BHAs) in order to continuously unclog pores of blackhead-causing debris. Using retinoids and/or benzoyl peroxide products, as well as regularly applying a clay mask, can also help prevent blackheads.

How do you draw out a deep blackhead?

If you’ve been consistently using targeted skincare products to get rid of your blackheads and haven’t had any luck, an option to consider is using a comedone extractor, like the ones you’ll find in the Bestope Blackhead Remover Kit. However, it is incredibly important that you first learn how to properly use this tool, as improper usage can damage your skin and cause irritation. You can also talk to a dermatologist about either doing an extraction facial or getting a higher-strength prescription topical.

The Bottom Line

Blackheads are incredibly annoying, and can be hard to treat if you aren’t taking the right steps. If you’d like to keep your complexion free of blackheads, consider adding one (or a few) of our recommended products to your skincare routine.

About the author

Best Products for Blackheads (21)

Kyra Heenan

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Kyra is a content writer based in Los Angeles, CA. She works in the health and wellness sphere, and covers everything from beauty to skincare to fitness. She has been passionate about skincare since she was a teenager, and loves uncovering the absolute best routines and products available to help people reach their skin goals.

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Introduction: My name is Eusebia Nader, I am a encouraging, brainy, lively, nice, famous, healthy, clever person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.